From the archives: Magpies outclassed in cup

The Magpies were preparing for one of the biggest matches in their history 85 years ago, as they were to take on Ilford in the FA Amateur Cup semi final at the Boleyn Ground, home of West Ham United FC, on March 28, 1936.

RAMC Aldershot, HMS Victory, Badsey Rangers and Southall – in front of a club record York Road attendance – had been eliminated by Maidenhead en route to the fixture against illustrious opposition.

Ilford were three times Isthmian League winners and twice Amateur Cup winners. United were a modest Spartan League side and started very much as second favourites.

A crowd of 18,000 spectators gathered for the big match including “a very large contingent from Maidenhead”, however the tie was played very much on the doorstep of the Essex club.

Ilford were flying high once again in the Isthmian League and Maidenhead found themselves two adrift by the break. Firstly Helland scored following up after a good save by Magpies

‘keeper Bunce and there was another blow on the stroke of half time when Watts headed home for Ilford after Maidenhead failed to clear a free-kick.

Hopes were lifted in the second period when top-scorer Hunt scored with a deflected shot. Two goals from Manley in the final fifteen minutes however put the game beyond Maidenhead.

Maidenhead are yet to come closer to reaching the final of a national knock-out cup competition, albeit John Dreyer’s side reached the quarter finals of the FA Trophy in 2004.

Ilford meanwhile were back at the

Boleyn Ground for a replayed Final in 1936, this time losing 3-1 to Casuals FC after a drawn match at Selhurst Park.

Ilford FC – via a number of namechanges and mergers – became part of the modern club known as Dagenham & Redbridge, who compete with the Magpies in the Vanarama National League.